Patrick Brown declared PC leader

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Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Party has chosen a little-known federal backbencher as their new leader. Patrick Brown defeated Deputy PC Leader Christine Elliott by more than 1,000 electoral points.

The federal Tory has been the MP for Barrie since 2006, but held a low provincial profile until he announced his bid to run for PC leader. Throughout campaigning, Brown distanced himself from the party establishment, which appears to have worked to his advantage.

As the results of the vote were announced riding by riding, Patrick Brown opened up an early lead and held on for the win. “I’m excited. I’m excited we are going to move mountains and build a better and greater Ontario,” Brown said.

Any disappointment felt by Christine Elliott and her supporters was quickly brushed aside as she immediately congratulated her opponent, “He’s gained the confidence of our members and earned a mandate to lead our party, and I declare this decision unanimous.”

Brown is the 4th person to lead the Progressive Conservatives in 12 years. Initially seen as the underdog, Brown’s campaign says they signed up 41,000 members, more than half of the party’s 76,000 eligible voters.

Representing the Liberals at the convention, Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca slammed Brown’s win. “I found it quite interesting that a person that for 9 years, while servicing as Member of Parliament, consistently refused to stand up for infrastructure investments and fair and equitable treatment by the federal government for this province, now wants to pretend he has what it takes to lead this province,” Del Duca said.